Ask An Expert: Discharge After Hysterectomy

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Ask An Expert: Discharge After Hysterectomy

Question:

I had a hysterectomy at the beginning of May. Now I'm having a lot of discharge. Doe this mean there is an infection, or does it just mean that I'm healing?

Answer:

Vaginal discharge after hysterectomy can be caused by several different factors. The most common and expected cause is part of the normal healing process. During a hysterectomy, an incision is made at the top of the vagina to remove the uterus. The incision is usually closed with sutures that can stimulate a vaginal discharge until they dissolve in about six weeks. The discharge is typically minimal and not associated with significant itch or irritation.

Infection with bacteria or yeast can cause an abnormal vaginal discharge. Bacterial infection often causes discharge associated with irritation and odor. Yeast infection typically causes moderate itch. Antibiotic or antifungal medication may be necessary to treat these infections.

Vaginal discharge from problems with healing is less common. If there is a bloody discharge, the vaginal incision may have become disrupted. An abundant watery discharge could indicate bladder injury or protrusion of the fallopian tube into the vagina.

Any discharge that is persistent, heavy, or associated with other troubling symptoms should prompt an evaluation by your doctor to assure appropriate healing and to exclude problems requiring additional treatment.

Joan Bengtson, M.D., is assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive biology at Harvard Medical School and a member of the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproduction at Brigham and Women's Hospital.

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Last updated:	January 24, 2007